They departed with a blessing, demonstrating God’s faithfulness.
Joshua, who led Israel from approximately 1406 BC to 1390 BC, played a central role in unifying God’s people in the Promised Land. In Joshua 22, we find the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh preparing to return to their territory on the eastern side of the Jordan River, which is a region east of modern-day Israel. The verse states, “So Joshua blessed them and sent them away, and they went to their tents.” (v.6) These tribes had fought alongside the other Israelites to secure the land west of the Jordan before returning to their own allotments, showing their commitment to the unity and faithfulness of the nation.
When we read “So Joshua blessed them and sent them away, and they went to their tents.” (v.6), this blessing underscores Joshua’s recognition of their loyalty, as well as the importance of living in obedience even when places of dwelling differ. Their faithful service was rewarded with a word of blessing that not only meant a safe return but also implied a continuing favor from God (Joshua 1:7). Historically, Joshua had succeeded Moses after the Exodus from Egypt and oversaw the final stages of entering the land, demonstrating a consistent theme of trusting God’s promises as seen echoed later in the New Testament (Hebrews 4:8-9).
The journey to their homes highlights God’s overarching plan to settle His chosen people throughout the land in peace. Despite being geographically distant, these tribes still shared a spiritual bond with the rest of Israel. The phrase “and they went to their tents” (v.6) suggests not only physical rest but also a spiritual respite, a reminder of God’s gracious provision in the wilderness and during the conquest. Their physical location did not separate them from the covenant community, a truth that resonates in the Christian understanding that believers remain united to Christ, the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promises (Romans 12:5).
Set to dark mode
Joshua 22:6 meaning
Joshua, who led Israel from approximately 1406 BC to 1390 BC, played a central role in unifying God’s people in the Promised Land. In Joshua 22, we find the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh preparing to return to their territory on the eastern side of the Jordan River, which is a region east of modern-day Israel. The verse states, “So Joshua blessed them and sent them away, and they went to their tents.” (v.6) These tribes had fought alongside the other Israelites to secure the land west of the Jordan before returning to their own allotments, showing their commitment to the unity and faithfulness of the nation.
When we read “So Joshua blessed them and sent them away, and they went to their tents.” (v.6), this blessing underscores Joshua’s recognition of their loyalty, as well as the importance of living in obedience even when places of dwelling differ. Their faithful service was rewarded with a word of blessing that not only meant a safe return but also implied a continuing favor from God (Joshua 1:7). Historically, Joshua had succeeded Moses after the Exodus from Egypt and oversaw the final stages of entering the land, demonstrating a consistent theme of trusting God’s promises as seen echoed later in the New Testament (Hebrews 4:8-9).
The journey to their homes highlights God’s overarching plan to settle His chosen people throughout the land in peace. Despite being geographically distant, these tribes still shared a spiritual bond with the rest of Israel. The phrase “and they went to their tents” (v.6) suggests not only physical rest but also a spiritual respite, a reminder of God’s gracious provision in the wilderness and during the conquest. Their physical location did not separate them from the covenant community, a truth that resonates in the Christian understanding that believers remain united to Christ, the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promises (Romans 12:5).